How to Beat Construction Season in Minnesota?

Open Streets Minneapolis hits Franklin

The old saying goes in Minnesota we only have two seasons, winter and construction season. Both of which have the same misery in common, being stuck in traffic. There are only two ways to avoid such misery, either not living here or embracing what’s available. That is what thousands did this past Sunday on Franklin Street in southern Minneapolis to celebrate the 5th year Open Streets Franklin.

Photo: Travis Meier

From Portland Ave to 27th Street people wandered up and down Franklin by foot, bike, skateboard, and stroller fighting off seasonal heart disease due to a cult-like gathering Minnesotans subject themselves to for 12 days every summer. Visitors, neighbors and local business lined Franklin Ave. sharing a taste of the area. Which is a fantastic change from overly passive aggressive drivers frustrated by major interstate closures who normally occupy the area.

Photo: Travis Meier

Block after block the Seward neighborhood became a melting pot of cultures sharing an interest in music, art, and culture. Anyone who was brave enough to battle the spicy afternoon got a real taste of Minneapolis love.

Photo: Travis Meier

Positive messages inscribed in chalk on the street to lines spit from open microphones. Everyone is out to help to ensure your registered to vote and sharing public service information. No matter the age, there was something for you at Open Streets.

Photo: Travis Meier

If you’re interested in the next event or are frustrated by the current season, Embrace it! The next Open Streets it will take place on September 15, 2018, on West Broadway between Penn Ave N to Lyndale Ave N. Leave your headache vehicle at home and grab your favorite mode of self-propulsion.